defined
UK[dɪˈfaɪnd]US[dɪˈfaɪnd]
adj
Having a clear outline or form; distinct.
adj
Clearly stated, described, or identified.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
fin
ed
de
completely
fin
end, limit
ed
adjective suffix
Etymology
The word 'defined' originates from the Latin verb definire, meaning "to limit, determine, explain." This verb itself is a compound of the intensive prefix de- and the root finis, which signifies "boundary" or "end." The core concept is that to define something is to set its limits or boundaries, thereby making it distinct from other things. The past participle form '-ed' was added in English, transforming the verbal action into an adjective describing a state of having clear, established limits, which evolved into the modern senses of being clearly outlined or precisely described.
Analysis
Structure: de (completely) + fin (end, limit) + ed (adjective suffix)
- de: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "completely, thoroughly, down, away."
- fin: Latin origin (from finis), meaning "end, limit, boundary."
- ed: Old English origin, a suffix forming adjectives from verbs or nouns, indicating a state or condition.
Examples
The sculpture had sharply defined edges.
The rules of the game are not yet clearly defined.
She has a well-defined plan for her career.